Published: March 9, 2026
ESCAC — Escola Superior de Cinema i Audiovisuals de Catalunya
Terrassa, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
One of Spain’s leading film schools with strong production facilities and a track record of producing working Spanish directors and cinematographers.
Quick facts
4-year Bachelor’s degree in Cinematography (official university qualification)
2-year Master’s degree in Film and Screen Studies
1-year intensive courses available
Teaching focus: Production, directing, cinematography, art direction, screenwriting, editing, sound
Language: Catalan and Spanish (primary languages of instruction)
Tuition: Approximately €3,000–€5,000 per year (based on credit costs)
Typical cohort size: Varies by program; around 40–60 per year across all programs
Exchange/visiting students: Yes, accepts international exchange students
What this school is known for
ESCAC has won over 500 international awards with films made by its students and graduates. The school has produced working Spanish directors and cinematographers who are active in Europe. It’s recognized by international publications like The Hollywood Reporter as one of the world’s best film schools.
Programs offered
Bachelor’s degree in Cinematography with specializations starting in year 3: directing, cinematography, production, art direction, screenwriting, editing, sound.
Master’s degree in Film and Screen Studies (2 years).
Short intensive courses in various audiovisual disciplines.
Teaching approach
ESCAC emphasizes hands-on production experience alongside theory. Students work with real equipment and crews. From year 3 onward, students can choose specialized tracks in their area of interest. The school operates through production companies that make actual films.
Equipment and facilities
ESCAC has strong production facilities including studios, editing suites, sound recording and mixing facilities, and cinematography equipment. The school operates production companies (Escándalo Films and ESCAC Films) that work on real projects. Located near Barcelona, a major European filming hub.
Industry connections
Juan Antonio Bayona (director of The Orphanage, A Monster Comes to See Me).
Lluís Castells (director of short films that premiered at major festivals).
Javi Ruiz Caldera (director of Superlópez and Anacleto: Secret Agent).
Guillermo Navarro (cinematographer; worked on Pan’s Labyrinth).
Active alumni network in Spanish and Catalan film industries.
Admissions
Admission is competitive and based on portfolio and entrance exam. Applicants must pass a formal entrance exam and interview process. Enrollment happens in July after admission. EU students and Spanish citizens apply through standard university application procedures.
Cost
Tuition is approximately €3,000–€5,000 per year, calculated on a per-credit basis. Costs vary slightly by program. Payment is due in July for first-year enrollment and in September for other years. This is significantly cheaper than private film schools in other European cities.
For visiting and exchange students
ESCAC accepts international exchange students through Erasmus+ and direct exchange agreements. Some short courses are available to visiting students. Contact the school directly for current exchange opportunities and language requirements.
Who this school is best for
ESCAC is best for students who speak Catalan or Spanish and want a serious, production-focused film education in a school that has proven success in the European industry. It’s a good fit if you want official university credentials and are willing to study in Barcelona.
